New Study Reveals Exercise Reduces Mortality Risk Even When Starting Later in Life

A recent study has reinforced the well-known link between physical activity and increased longevity, indicating that the benefits of exercise extend even to those who begin an active lifestyle later in life. According to findings published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, engaging in regular physical activity can lower the risk of mortality from various common diseases by 30 to 40 percent.

The research highlights that individuals who may not meet official activity guidelines but still increase their physical activity levels can see a reduction in their risk of death by 20 to 25 percent. This comprehensive analysis reviewed 85 different studies that examined physical activity across multiple time points, categorizing participants as either consistently active or inactive.

The researchers from the School of Public Health at the University of Queensland in Brisbane concluded that transitioning to a more active lifestyle at any stage of adulthood can extend one's lifespan, emphasizing that it is never too late to start exercising. Their analysis found that individuals who shifted from a sedentary lifestyle to incorporating regular physical activity experienced a 22 percent reduction in their mortality risk compared to those who remained inactive.

The World Health Organization (WHO) currently recommends adults engage in:

• 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week
• 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week
• A combination of both types of activity

Notably, the study indicated that the most significant protective effects of physical activity were observed against cardiovascular diseases, which are the leading causes of death globally, compared to other health issues such as cancer. The researchers acknowledged that the majority of studies included in their analysis relied on self-reported data regarding physical activity, which may not always be entirely accurate. Despite this limitation, the implications of their findings for public health are substantial.